Place · 0.3 mi away
Overview
A classic DOC standard campsite on the shore of a small alpine lake, Moke Lake Campsite trades creature comforts for peace, space, and mountain-and-water views. It’s close to town yet feels miles away once the gravel starts.
Facilities
- 50 unpowered sites.
- Clean long‑drop toilets; simple covered cooking/washing shelter with stainless benches and sinks (no stoves, no showers).
- Seasonal running water from taps; treat/boil before drinking. Taps are turned off in winter.
- Generally no mobile reception.
- No dogs. No fires. Lake speed limit is 5 km/h.
Booking, Fees & Passes
Online bookings are required year‑round. Typical fees: Adults NZ$18/night, Children NZ$9, Infants free. DOC Campsite Pass is accepted (bookings still required for pass holders).
What to Do
- Easy loop walk around Moke Lake with lovely sunrise/sunset mirror reflections on calm days.
- Lake fun: swimming, kayaking/canoeing, and trout fishing.
- Tracks connect to Lake Dispute (about 2 hours on foot or mountain bike). Horse trekking occurs in the area.
- Expect friendly ducks nosing around the shore.
Getting There
Turn off Glenorchy Road and follow roughly 7 km of narrow, corrugated gravel to the lake. It’s manageable in 2WD in dry conditions but can be bumpy, dusty, and tight with limited pull‑offs. In winter the road can be tricky; drive in daylight if you can.
Seasonality & Crowds
Summer (especially January weekends) is popular and can feel busy, though the area is spacious. Winter is quiet and scenic with snow on surrounding peaks, chilly mornings, and late‑arriving sun—and the taps are off.
Best Time to Visit
- For photos: sunrise and calm evenings bring those glassy reflections.
- For fewer people: mid‑week or outside January.
- For swimming and paddling: late spring through early autumn when water is on and days are warm.
Tips
- Book ahead, then arrive before dusk—the final gravel stretch isn’t fun in the dark.
- Bring bug spray (sandflies), warm layers for cold mornings, and a headlamp for toilet runs.
- Treat all water; in winter, plan to bring your own as taps are off.
- There’s no cell signal—download maps and entertainment offline.
- Carry a card and some cash as a backup for ranger fee checks.
Pros
- Big alpine lake views just ~12 km from Queenstown
- Simple cooking shelter with sinks and seasonal water taps
Cons
- Rough, corrugated gravel access road
- No mobile reception and no showers
Tips
- Drive the last 7 km of gravel slowly and plan to arrive in daylight.
- Pack insect repellent, warm layers, and a headlamp for nighttime toilet trips.
- Treat all tap water; in winter bring your own as taps are turned off.
- Book online in advance—summer dates fill and rangers check bookings.
- Download offline maps and entertainment; there’s no mobile reception.
